When Andre Ricciardi was diagnosed with terminal colon cancer, he didn’t want a somber eulogy or a tragic retrospective. He wanted to be called an "idiot" for not going with his friend, Lee, to get a potentially lifesaving colonoscopy a year earlier.In this episode, we sit down with Mekanism co-founders — CEO Jason Harris and Chief Creative Officer Tommy Means, and Andre is an Idiot director Tony Benna, who also worked alongside Andre at the creative agency, to discuss the documentary and the "Colonoscopy Reminder" campaign they launched to support the film and raise awareness of the illness, The film is a masterclass in "humor in adversity," born from Andre’s own desire to use his final days to shout a message from the rooftops: get your colonoscopy.We explore the emotional tightrope of filming a friend’s final act, the cultural impact the project had on their agency, and the incredible reception at Sundance. From the absurdity of the title to the life-saving advocacy work now being done in Andre's name, this conversation proves that while death might be a taboo subject, laughter is often the best way to start the conversation. It’s a story of legacy, the power of creative storytelling, and the profound community bonds that form when we face our darkest moments with a smile.
Campaign Chemistry: Mekanism co-founders Jason Harris, Tommy Means, and director Tony Benna
How a dying wish turned into a comedic documentary that is breaking the taboo around colon cancer and saving lives.














